In the small villages of the former parish of Łukowa in southeastern Poland, a unique and age‑old Christmas custom survives – dunajowanie. This remarkable practice, performed each year on St. Stephen’s Eve (December 26), blends singing, folklore and social ritual into a distinctly local celebration rooted in centuries‑old tradition.
What Is Dunajowanie?
Dunajowanie — literally “walking the dunaj” — is a traditional form of caroling specific to Łukowa and nearby communities such as Rakówka, Zamch and Chmielek. Unlike typical religious carols, dunaje are secular “wishing songs” performed by young men and bachelors who go from house to house on the evening of December 26, St. Stephen’s Day, singing to unmarried women in the community.
In these songs, the singers wish the girls a swift and happy marriage in the year ahead. The lyrics vary according to the age of the woman being addressed, with distinctive tunes and verses crafted for different stages of youth and adulthood.
The name “dunajowanie” comes from the recurring word dunaj in the refrains — not referring to the famous Central European river, but to a symbolic “swift river” representing youth, life, love and good fortune.
How It Worked Traditionally
In its original form, groups of young male vocalists — sometimes accompanied by simple instruments — moved through the villages after dark. They sang their dunaje outside the homes of eligible young women, invoking blessings and encouraging future marriage prospects.
In return for their heartfelt songs, singers were given a small payment known as zapłatejka. This could be money, food, or even alcohol. Some of it was used later for communal meals or celebrations among the singers, while part might be directed to charitable purposes.
The tradition was rooted in local social life: it reinforced community bonds and provided a public, song‑filled way to celebrate youth, hope and continuity – at a time still full of winter mysteries and ancient meaning.
Cultural Significance and Preservation
Recognizing its historical and cultural value, dunajowanie was inscribed on Poland’s National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2020, alongside other regional traditions from across the country.
Local cultural institutions, such as the Gminny Ośrodek Kultury (Municipal Cultural Centre) in Łukowa, have worked to keep the custom alive. Since 2020, they have organized events and reviews under the banner “Lubelszczyzna Dunajuje” — inviting singers and audiences across the Lublin region to learn and share dunaje.
A Living Tradition with Deep Roots
Although modern life has changed village routines, dunajowanie persists as a living link to Poland’s past — a reminder of how song, community and festive ritual once shaped the rhythm of winter holidays. It mixes folk pride with seasonal joy, and continues to attract young people curious about their cultural heritage.